A 108-YEAR-OLD woman was among nine people that President Sata yesterday conferred with honours for distinguished service in various sectors of society.
The centenarian, Sylvia Musoka Chembe, was conferred with the Companion Order of Freedom First Division for her memorable service to Zambians during the struggle for independence.
The investiture ceremony, at Kitwe Playing Field, was part of the commemoration of Zambia’s 49 years of independence.
Also honoured was Chipango Samundele for her bravery of saving a friend’s life by pulling her from the jaws of a crocodile.
Mr Sekelani Phiri was honoured with the Presidential Medal for Gallantry for rescuing his five-year-old daughter from a rampaging buffalo that had killed his wife.
The same honour was awarded to Mr Charles Hamanjanji Hamweete while Lazarous Hakalebula received the President’s Insignia for Recognition.
Ruth Joan Wallis, Elizabeth Margaret Maganennis, Montah Jobrith Chileshe and Vanwick Matolokosi Mwanza, who were honoured posthumously, were conferred with the Order of Distinguished Service First Division.
Before the President conferred honours, former President Kenneth Kaunda was mesmerised by an American resident in Zambia, Todd Seely, who sang a liberation struggle song ‘Ubuntungwa’ which was originally done by Keith Mlevu.
Other entertainment activities were performed by Distro Kuomboka, Ba Bomba, Muzumba Culture Group of Chililabombwe and the Patriotic Front ‘Cibe Cibe’ Choir.
First Lady Christine Kaseba, in her continued campaign for good health, stole some limelight by urging Zambians to frequently undergo medical examinations and know their health status.
Earlier in Lusaka, President Sata led former President Kenneth Kaunda, defence chiefs and diplomats accredited to Zambia in laying wreaths at the Freedom Statue, report JIMMY CHIBUYE and VIOLET MENGO.
President Sata arrived at the Freedom Statue around 08:50 hours and went straight to greet Dr Kaunda before greeting Vice-President Guy Scott, his wife Charlotte, defence chiefs and other dignitaries.
President Sata also laid wreaths on the graves of late former presidents Frederick Chiluba and Levy Mwanawasa at Embassy Park in Lusaka, reports TEDDY KUYELA.
The President arrived at Embassy Park at about 09:55 hours in the company of senior Government officials.
Mr Sata also greeted Dr Chiluba’s family members who were at Embassy Park to witness the laying of wreaths.
This was President Sata’s recognition of the fallen heroes.